Using the Zika virus to target and kill brain tumor stem cells
Leveraging Zika virus and the immune system to treat glioblastoma
This study is exploring a new way to treat glioblastoma, a tough brain tumor, by using the Zika virus, which can specifically attack and kill the tumor's stubborn cells, with the hope of shrinking the tumor and helping patients live longer while protecting healthy brain cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10983785 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to treating glioblastoma, a highly aggressive brain tumor, by leveraging the Zika virus. The Zika virus has shown the ability to specifically target and kill glioblastoma stem cells, which are resistant to conventional therapies. The study aims to harness the virus's natural properties to reduce tumor size and improve survival rates in patients. By focusing on the unique characteristics of glioblastoma stem cells, the research seeks to develop a more effective treatment strategy that minimizes damage to healthy brain cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with glioblastoma, particularly those whose tumors have not responded to standard therapies.
Not a fit: Patients with glioblastoma who are not eligible for experimental treatments or those with other types of brain tumors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a groundbreaking treatment for glioblastoma that effectively targets and eliminates resistant tumor cells.
How similar studies have performed: This approach is novel, but preliminary findings suggest that using the Zika virus to target glioblastoma stem cells has shown promising results in animal models.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chheda, Milan Girish — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Chheda, Milan Girish
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.